Is a second cat a bad idea?

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My cat is 1 and doesn’t like being left alone when we go out. Plus, I would love another furry addition to the family. I was thinking that maybe a second cat would be good company for her but at the same time, I don’t want her to feel pushed out? What are people’s thoughts?

I think it's tricky because cats are territorial. It's easier if they have outside access but presumably you wouldn't be worried about your cat if she was going outside.

Saying 'cats are territorial' doesn't really mean much. Feral colonies live in big groups (or indeed colonies:) ) and there are many close relationships among them. When all are neutered they tend to become closer still. I have 20 plus in my house. They all get along fine and there are many close relationships that have formed between them.

Some cats hate other cats (although ferals don't seem to be like this), some happily tolerate and some love the company of other cats. As long as your cat isn't one of the cat haters then, with careful introductions and time, and providing the new cat also likes other cats, they should end up at least rubbing along together ok and hopefully will end up as friends.

I introduced another cat when one of mine died. The remaining cat was absolutely fine and they rub along well. Very protective of each other but not friends.

It depends on the cat and you never know because they can surprise you.

You’d need to do slow introductions and that can take a while depending on the cats.

Jackson Galaxy does some great YouTube videos on introducing cats.

I've always had multiple cats and they've got on fine eventually. The last two weren't keen on each other and would just totally ignore each other.
They both got into the same cat bed one day when it was really cold and both of them looked extremely uncomfortable, like when you've had an argument with your other half and are lying there desperately trying not to touch each other
But on the whole they've all been ok sharing a house. But be warned they may tolerate each other but not be play friends.

I’ve decided to go for it. I’ve tried letting it go and pushing the idea away but I can’t stop thinking about it, so I’m taking that as a sign that it’s the right thing to do 😸. My main concern is that my cat will feel jealous and run away, but I’m hoping with slow and gentle introductions that they’ll be ok 🤞🏻

Your cat won't run away. You need to ask the rescue to find you a cat-friendly cat. Try not to specify anything else (age/sex/colour) - you want cat-friendly above all else.